Inside Balance Catamarans: The Future of Performance Cruising

Join Dean Paarman, Director of Operations at Balance Catamarans, and Phil Berman, President of Balance Catamarans, for an in-depth conversation on the design evolution, engineering breakthroughs, and construction innovations behind the newest Balance models. From the launch of the Balance 580, 502, 750, and the first E-Drive installations, to rethinking hull structures, materials, rig geometry, and OEM partnerships — this discussion reveals how Balance is raising the standard for performance voyaging catamarans while keeping comfort, durability, and cost in balance. Whether you’re a current owner, future buyer, industry professional, or simply a fan of the brand, this video provides rare behind-the-scenes insight into how and why Balance continues to innovate. ⏱️ Chapter Markers 00:00 – Introduction 00:49 – Launching New Models 01:13 – Innovation & Design Philosophy 01:51 – Why New Tooling Is So Challenging 03:15 – Mockups & Cross-Department Collaboration 04:49 – Designing for Real-World Use 05:51 – Balancing Comfort, Performance & Cost 08:46 – Carbon Core, Infusion & Weight Reduction 11:23 – Aesthetic Upgrades & Interior Evolution 21:13 – OEM Partnerships, Quality & Reliability 27:18 – Closing Thoughts & Future Topics 💬 Topics Covered • Why Balance is releasing multiple new models in one year • The real cost and complexity of new tooling • Mockups, prototyping, and the design iteration process • Performance vs comfort: how Balance finds the sweet spot • How waterline length, stern volume & payload capacity affect performance • Carbon Core construction and strategic weight reduction • New rig geometry and sail plan upgrades • Aesthetic updates inspired by high-end Italian furniture • Window redesigns, ventilation improvements & helm ergonomics • OEM component choices: what stays, what changes, and why • Long-term durability considerations for voyaging sailors 📌 About Balance Catamarans Balance Catamarans builds high-performance, live-aboard cruising catamarans engineered for voyaging sailors who demand both speed and comfort. With production in South Africa and owners sailing across every ocean, Balance continues to lead in design innovation, craftsmanship, and ocean-ready reliability.